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Perdue: Immigration Law May Have Drawbacks

Associated Press

Updated: 6 years ago.

Former Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue said this week the state might face some unintended consequences with its new immigration law. He said he wanted Georgia to be known as a state that was friendly and welcoming to people. Civil liberties groups have challenged the new immigration law in court, and the first hearing is set for Monday. (Photo Courtesy of cheeses via Flickr.)

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Former Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue said this week the state might face some unintended consequences with its new immigration law.

Perdue told WXIA-TV he wanted Georgia to be known as a state that was friendly and welcoming to people.

"There's a real legitimate worker shortage where there is a real fear and perception that Georgia is probably not a state to be seen in if you're of a different color," Perdue said.

"I don't think that's what Georgia wants to be known as," he said.

Civil liberties groups have challenged the new immigration law in court, and the first hearing is set for Monday.

There have also been concerns it will hurt Georgia's agriculture industry. Gov. Nathan Deal suggested this week that people on probation could replace field workers who might be scared away by a crackdown on illegal immigration.